MASTERCLASS
Cairn Terrier
The Cairn Terrier, often referred to as the "Little Lion of the Highlands," is a pint-sized powerhouse of personality and charm. With its shaggy, weather-resistant coat and alert expression, the Cairn Terrier embodies the rugged spirit of its Scottish origins. Beneath that tousled exterior lies a fearless and tenacious hunter, originally bred to navigate rocky terrain and hunt burrowing vermin.
PRUE
Prue is a brindle Cairn Terrier and is being hand stripped into a show trim by Chuckie. Prue is 9 months old and already an Australian champion! The tools used today are a stone, rake and detailer.
PART 1 Chuckie starts by stripping some of the undercoat out. This can be a controversial technique, but, each to their own! Chuckie works the whole coat to get the dog ready for a show.
PART 2 Working the neck and chest. Chuckie strips the neck to flow into the topline and shoulder.
PART 3 The head study. Chuckie hand strips the ears (a third to half), she creates a definite stop and follows with a trad head, not like a Westie head!
Breed Standard at Dogs Australia
Study Notes | Key Concepts
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Rake (Andis preferred for undercoat removal without cutting)
Stripping stone (instead of knife for coat rolling)
Comb
Detailer
Grooming glove (to reduce hand fatigue)
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Light raking stimulates coat regrowth without removing all undercoat.
Rolling the coat bi-weekly maintains consistent texture.
Always strip lightly and methodically to avoid damaging the skin or coat.
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Start with the top line and work methodically down the sides.
Avoid excessive skirt—maintain visibility of rib shape and hind strength.
Tail should sit between 1 and 2 o'clock—avoid a Westie-style tail set.
Allow time for puppy rest and training in between grooming phases.
Smooth transitions in shoulders, sides, and rear are key to achieving a balanced show silhouette.
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Strip, don’t clip—especially around ears and stop.
Expose the eyes and maintain a natural stop (no Westie chrysanthemum style).
Shape is more angular than round—use the 1/3 rule for trimming around ears.
Use texture product ("Amp It Up") to lift and hold shape.
Be gentle and patient—especially with young dogs uncomfortable with face handling.
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Don’t overlook the final checks—go over the whole dog to ensure even coat texture.
Apply knowledge of breed standards to finish work (tail set, leg position, head proportions).
